Body Elements

The NEX-6 is the first model in the line to include an external mode dial. It sits on top of the larger-circumference control dial on the top-right.

A new multi interface hotshoe allows for ISO standard accessories - a first for the NEX series. Hidden underneath the housing at the front of the shoe though are the non-standard connector pins which allow for use of Sony's own line of proprietary accessories.

The built-in flash offers the same GN (6 at ISO 100) as the unit on the NEX-7, but provides slightly wider coverage to accommodate the 24mm-equivalent wide angle of the new 16-50mm kit lens. Output can be modified with flash exposure compensation of +/– 2 stops EV.

Stereo microphones sit behind small holes located just above the lens mount.

The recessed movie record button is placed, somewhat awkwardly, along the camera's right edge at a 45 degree angle. While requiring a two handed hold of the camera, its location does prevent accidental operation, which is a serious problem on the NEX-7.

Like other models in the lineup, the NEX-6 has a 4-way control dial with a center confirmation button. Along its cardinal points you'll find direct access for display mode, ISO, exposure compensation and drive mode. The camera's two 'soft keys' sit above and below the dial.

The NEX-6's connectors consist of a USB and HDMI port, but unlike the NEX-7 there is no 3.5mm external mic input. Those wanting to use an external mic must use one of Sony's Smart Accessory compatible models that connect via the multi-interface hotshoe.

The battery and SD card go into a compartment on the base of the camera. The NEX-6 uses the same 7.7Wh NP-FW50 Li-ion battery as other NEX models.

Sony claims it provides 360 shots per charge with the rear LCD and 270 when using the EVF, according to CIPA standard testing.

The tripod mount is aligned with center of the lens axis. Because of the NEX-6's ultra-slim body and tilt screen, there's very little space on the base plate for a quick release plate to grip.

The mount is sufficiently far from the battery/memory card compartment to allow them to be changed with the camera on a tripod.

Which camera would compete well with the nex 6..?Any opinions greatly appreciated.

I originally wanted to invest in a canon 700 d ( just missed out on a greal deal on the 600d ) but the fact tthat the viewfinder is optical swayed me.

Is there an all round dslr for amatuers coming from a bridge version with the following...EVF.Decent lens ( perhaps a Compact system type ) mid range 18-55mm or a little moreHigh ISOLighweight Flip screen, preferably one which can actually swivel round to take portraits...Touch screen is NOT necessaryAnd of course a decent battery which the camera makes tend to overlook...I feel Canon have lost sight where Nikon is concerned whereas Sony and Lumix seem to have come a long way and are doing what Olympus did in the 70s and the 80s...Again, any thoughts on the above..?

I am just about to purchase this camera on the basis that I can return it within 15 days if unhappy...I thought I had done my homework when decidng on the nex 6 but I am unable to find out if it is possible to override the function of having the screen on.It seems that the EVF switches on automatically when you place your eye close up to the corner of the camera ( thrus the screen goes off...) and the screen does the same when you move away from the EVF.

To my surprise there is quite a 'waste' of battery time...Living in a sunny country means the use of an EVF is much more practical.

Can anyone give any tips on how to make the battery last longer.Ideally, taking three on trips is practical. An external charger is wise too.And the pc method when on the go is practical as well. Nevertheless, total control over the screeen makes sense nowadays.I share your point too photosym. That does not make sense as a selling / marketing point. Is this the case with most sony cameras??

I don't know who designed this camera, but it certainly wasn't an active photographer. It would be a superb machine, but there's a massive design flaw. You can't use the self timer or an electronic shutter release when in HDR or Auto bracketing modes. Absolutely crazy!!! I've been in touch with Sony and they don't have any plans for a firmware update. I'm not sure if this applies to other Nex or Sony models, but be aware. This is the last Sony camera I will buy, I'll stick to Canon or Fuji in the future.

I agree with you photosym. This would be a great camera, but it is really useless in the respect of remote control bracketed photography. The remote control is useless when you can't have timers, and other manual settings. It is a shame.

I just bought a Sony nex 6. What a amazing camera. Yes you can use HDR and Auto Bracketing with a remote. At list via wifi with my android phone and ipad. Better than the Leica M digital. With more options. As a reporter I love this camera.

I ordered the new SHURE VP83F LensHopper Camera-Mounted Condenser Microphone with Integrated Flash Recording for this camera and it's std size shoe mount to record and video shoot indoor stage Band performances.

I just unboxed my Sony alpha Nex6 a few minutes ago. I have several Panasonic Lumix's and a Canon Rebel. The Sony, however, is the first camera I've encountered whereby I cannot simply recharge the battery in a compact charger!Instead I have to connect a wire from the camera into the charger and thence into a wall socket meaning I cannot have second backup battery.If I'm on vacation I can't simply leave a battery charging at a hotel room and go out and use my camera with a second battery. I have to leave the WHOLE camera behind to charge!Am I missing something here? It seems VERY odd.

+1, I wish Canon and others would add this feature. While external chargers are vital for certain uses (long trips with brief access to power for example) internal chargers are WAY more convenient. Just bring a USB cord and your iPhone's USB->power adapter and you can plug in your camera to suck some juice whenever you have the chance.

I certainly don't hear people complaining about how the batteries in their phones work these days, we just need to get used to the same thing with cameras (especially the "grab some juice while you can" part, don't wait for it to empty out!)

Just to update this, I didn't realize that you can't use the camera at all while it's charging (mentioned in an Amazon review). That's a very tedious element of this equation if it's true. I can imagine a LOT of situations where I'd want to review photos, make picks or just mess around with the camera while charging it.

It should "work like your phone" like I said in the comment above, if you can't use it while it's charging that's not like a phone. Of course, it IS like every camera previously if you only own one battery ;)

Any number of aftermarket and also (expensive but sure) Sony's spare battery and chargers will add external charging and spare batteries. Safe reliable aftermarket ones are not that expensive and will provide a much more convenient way to refresh the power than with having only one battery. I usually have up to 3-4 batteries always on hand for any primary cameras, two of which are always on the charger during vacations.

I guess in this market for consumer price wars, Sony can't include expensive batteries in the original bundles, at cut-rate prices, nor confuse the ever impatient general consumer who just wants things simple?

LOL I love charging direct to camera, and yes we need to buy extra external charger, but you can just buy cheap chinese charger for around 10-15 USD, with that I can charge 2 battery at the same times, and also I can charge with powerbank when it need.

Direct mounting is only with SONY E-Mount Lenses, however you have the option to add a LA-EA2 or LA-EA4 adapter to use any Sony A-mount lenses with full Auto Focus features intact. This is also true for all AF Minolta Lenses that use the A-mount as well.

Also, with aftermarket mounting adapter solutions, almost any SLR lenses can be used with MANUAL focus. Canon lenses can operate with some adapters with limited AF functions as well.

Providing a touchscreen, with the ability to enable/disable will meet 100% of user preferences no? ;) Instead of battling opinions on if it should be there or not? I think that's what the review implies...